San Bernardino, CA (October 24, 2025) — The San Bernardino Municipal Water Department (SBMWD) has begun operation of the Tertiary Treatment System (TTS), a facility that treats and reuses up to 2.5 million gallons per day (MGD) of recycled water. Operational as of September 2025, the TTS uses recycled water to operate internal processes at the Water Reclamation Plant increasing operational efficiency and reducing reliance on potable water supplies.
Looking ahead, the TTS also positions the Department to expand the system’s recycled water capacity to support indirect reuse through recharge of the Bunker Hill Groundwater Basin, bolstering long-term water reliability for the region.
“After years of careful planning, design and construction, the Tertiary Treatment System is now operational, marking a transformative milestone in the Department’s history,” said Miguel Guerrero, General Manager of the San Bernardino Municipal Water Department. “This achievement underscores our ongoing commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship. It demonstrates how far we’ve come as an organization and how we’re preparing to meet the water challenges of the next century.”
“This is a proud moment for the Water Board and the San Bernardino community,” said Toni Callicott, San Bernardino Water Board President. “The Tertiary Treatment System reflects the dedication, expertise, and perseverance of a team that worked tirelessly to make this vision a reality. On behalf of the Board, I congratulate staff and our partners for achieving an important milestone for our city’s future.”
By integrating advanced treatment processes, SBMWD continues to safeguard natural resources as a steward of water supplies and operations across the region. The Tertiary Treatment System represents a major investment in local infrastructure, supporting the Department’s mission to ensure safe, reliable, and sustainable water and wastewater services.
About San Bernardino Municipal Water Department
Established by The City of San Bernardino Charter in 1905, the San Bernardino Municipal Water Department is a municipal water and wastewater utility serving a population of more than 215,000, encompassing a forty-five square mile area of the City of San Bernardino and its surrounding communities. SBMWD provides Water Reclamation services for the cities of San Bernardino and Loma Linda and Sewer Collection services for the City of San Bernardino and neighboring communities. For over a century, SBMWD has been committed to providing quality water and wastewater services by meeting the needs of the community in a transparent, environmentally responsible, and efficient manner. View all SBMWD Press Releases.
Media Contact:
Devin Arciniega, Water Conservation/Public Affairs Manager